Aircraft wing separation following runway excursion

Casualties unknown • Put-in-bay, OH, US

An aircraft experienced a left wing separation after striking a sign near the runway during an aborted landing attempt.

What happened

During the landing phase, the aircraft touched down before the runway numbers. According to a witness, the aircraft arrived at a high speed. Upon touchdown, the left wing dipped approximately 20 to 30 degrees.

In an attempt to abort the landing, the pilot applied full engine power. The pilot reported that after touchdown, the left landing gear felt unstable, causing the airplane to pull to the left. As the pilot applied power, the aircraft pulled to the right. During this maneuver, the left wing struck a sign located near the runway. The impact caused the left wing to separate from the aircraft, resulting in the plane veering off to the left.

The pilot managed to bring the aircraft to a stop by reducing power, applying the brakes, and using right rudder. Tire marks on the pavement indicated that the aircraft had landed on the far left edge of the runway. The occupants were not injured.

Probable cause

The left wing separated from the aircraft after striking a sign near the runway during an aborted landing attempt.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-07-02 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Put-in-bay, OH?

An aircraft experienced a left wing separation after striking a sign near the runway during an aborted landing attempt.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-07-02 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N5716F, at Put-in-bay, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The left wing separated from the aircraft after striking a sign near the runway during an aborted landing attempt.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01826. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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